MBOMBELA - The Provincial Commissioner for the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Lt Gen Mondli Zuma, warned community members against participating in violent protests to air their dissatisfaction about service delivery or any other issues. Zuma’s warning comes in the wake of sporadic protest action, some of which turned violent, that was experienced in various parts of the province today.

Community members in Mpumalanga woke up to barricaded streets and burning tyres in areas such as Newskom/Zwelisha and Barberton in Mbombela, Mzinti and Langeloop in Nkomazi, as well as Kwaggafontein and KwaMhlanga in Nkangala. Most of these protests were peaceful and was quickly dispersed by diligent members of the police, as well as the respective area’s municipal law-enforcement personnel. The protests in Nkangala were, however, marred by violence. A government vehicle was torched and two others damaged, offices were vandalised and computers were looted. Foreign-owned shops were also attacked in the ensuing chaos.

Police have arrested more than 20 people on charges of public violence and malicious damage to property. They will appear in court soon.

Zuma also reminded members of the community that barricading roads and limiting the free movement of people are against the law, as is forcing people to participate in any action against their will.

Editor: Anchen Coetzee
Subeditor: Lynette Brink
Submitted by: Col Mtsholi Bhembe